CHARLOTTE – The current pandemic caused many people to be at home more, resulting in an unprecedented demand for adopting a furry companion, especially an adorable puppy. While on the surface this seems like a great effect of the pandemic, it has developed a dark side that we want to make everyone aware of through this article. Scammers are abusing the increased need that people have for puppies and making a lot of money in the process. The recent Wall Street Journal article “This Year’s Big Online Scam-Puppies” details several recent puppy scams and how they work. In the article, one example is given of a North Carolina man who recently lost his 17-year-old dog, a long-haired dachshund, and was looking for a new puppy. He wasn’t able to find any local breeders with availability, so he turned to the internet for a solution. Eventually, he found a site selling a puppy that seemed perfect for him. After communicating with the seller, he paid several hundred dollars using a mobile payment service. Unfortunately, he never received the puppy. According to The Better Business Bureau, puppy scams have increased by over 280% since Covid-19 started, which is more than a little alarming.

If you are looking for a fur baby, we highly recommend that you consider adoption from a reputable organization over buying online. Visit South Charlotte Dog Rescue at www.southcharlottedogrescue.com or other local rescue groups and help give a dog or cat in need a loving, furever home.